A CARE worker appeared in court accused of sexual abusing a mentally ill person.

Ian Hall was charged with four counts of sex offences with someone who had a mental disorder in Brighton and Hove.

At Lewes Crown Court, it was alleged that the 55-year-old caused or incited the person to engage in sexual activity, and had sexually touched the person, who cannot be identified for legal reasons.

Hall spoke to confirm his name and to plead not guilty to the four charges as they were read out in a hearing before His Honour Judge Mark Van Der Zwart.

He was represented by Amy Packham during the hearing, while Hugh Forgan represented the Crown Prosecution Service.

The judge told Hall, formerly of Highfield, Wick, that he will need to liaise with his lawyers ahead of his trial.

A possible trial date was listed in the fortnight starting January 17 next year.